500ml / 10,000

Target Pests:

Tetranychus urticae (Two-spotted or Red spider mite)

Tetranychus cinnabarinus (Carmine spider mite)

Tetranychus turkestani (Strawberry spider mite)

Tetranychus ludeni (Bean mite)

Persimilis (Phytoseiulus persimilis) is a predatory mite originally from South America, but now has a worldwide distribution. It is a well-known biological control agent against spider mites. One of the benefits of this predatory mite is that it can be applied preventatively, as it can feed on pollen while awaiting a spider mite infestation. It is important to note that Persimilis does not harm plants or bite humans.

Protected crops:

Peppers, chillies, tomatoes, potatoes, beans, maize, cucumber, melons, strawberries, eggplant, as well as ornamentals such as gerbera, roses, and various pot plants.

Description:

The adult female is an orange-red pear-shaped mite rather longer than its prey. It has longer front legs and a characteristic rapid movement when disturbed or exposed to bright light. The nymphs are oval and pale pink in colour.

Delivery:

• Spidex is packed in a 500cc bottle containing a minimum of 10 000 predatory mites mixed in a vermiculite carrier.
• Spidex can be sprinkled from the bottle over the crop or applied by specially designed distribution boxes to be hung on the plant. The former application method is good for horizontal crops whereas the latter is more effective for vertical crops.

Application:

• Prior to opening, the bottle should be rotated gently while in a horizontal position to allow proper mixing of the predatory mites in the vermiculite carrier.
• Spidex is shipped in isolated styrofoam boxes chilled with ice packs. This packaging must be kept intact until it reaches the end user.
• Spidex should be introduced upon the first sign of spider mite damage. The release rate depends upon the nature of the crop, the ecosystem (e.g. open field or greenhouse) and the level of spider mite infestation. Temperatures of 21-27°C and high humidity (above 60%) will enhance predator activity and ensure its success.